With the passage of time, a person achieves greater wisdom, wealth,
and a closer connection to the spirit world. People who excel in life,
nurture large families, succeed in their chosen profession as warriors,
hunters, diviners, farmers, or traders, become prominent elders.

They are given greater respect with age and through achievement assume
new political and spiritual leadership roles in their community. For
example, among the Yoruba
of Nigeria both male and female elders belong to the Oshugbo
(also called Ogboni) society.